American Airlines plane makes emergency landing in Iqaluit

An American Airlines jet made an unexpected landing in Iqaluitaround noon ET Tuesday due to a medical emergency on board.

The Boeing 777 was en-route from Londons Heathrow airport to the Los Angeles International Airport when it had to make a diversion.

After landing in the Nunavut capital, one passenger was removed from the plane and taken to the Qikiqtani General Hospital.

Health Officials say the person has been treated and will be released.

All other passengers stayed on board to avoid clearing customs.

The plane hit the ground overweight because it had too much fuel left in its tanks. It had to be inspected by maintenance crews before being cleared for takeoff.

The 777 spent about four hours on the tarmac.

The runway at Iqaluit International Airport can handle the largest planes in the sky. It's situated along the 'over-the-top' route often used by planes travelling between parts of North America and Europe.

Medical diversions happen infrequently in Iqaluitabout one or two times per year.